UK Students Live at Home as University Costs Rise
More UK students are choosing to live at home while attending university this year. New figures show the trend has reached its highest level in nine years.
More than 81,000 UK 18-year-olds said they planned to live at home. That figure represents slightly more than one in three accepted applicants.In 2017, only about one in five students planned to remain at home. The trend now affects students across all parts of the UK.
Rising Costs Drive Student Choices
Students say rising living costs have strongly influenced their decisions. Accommodation costs have become a major concern for many families.In Scotland, 48% of applicants plan to live at home. Wales recorded the lowest figure, with 20% of applicants choosing the same option.
Beatrice, from St Helens, will study mathematics at the University of Manchester. She plans to commute by train, with her journey taking around 50 minutes.Her friend Amelia will study at Liverpool John Moores University. Her accommodation search found rooms costing between £300 and £400 each week.Both students want to enjoy university life despite living at home. However, another student, Jessica, worries that commuting could reduce her free time.
Students Rethink University Experience
Jessica wanted to live on campus but found accommodation costs too high. She works part-time to help manage her expenses.Recent research also highlights the wider financial pressure on students. The Higher Education Policy Institute said students needed about £61,000 during a three-year degree.That figure excludes tuition fees. Meanwhile, university accommodation costs continue to rise across the UK.
The Open University has also seen more young students join its courses. Almost 3,400 people aged 18 and 19 enrolled last year.The university says online study can reduce moving and accommodation costs. It can also allow students to continue working while studying.
However, experts say campus life offers benefits beyond accommodation. They argue that students gain personal development and social experiences from living within university communities.The government says it recognises student financial pressures. Officials plan to increase maintenance loans and restore maintenance grants to help with living costs.
